U.S. patent application number 15/164174 was filed with the patent office on 2017-02-02 for low voltage power supply for a merchandise display system.
The applicant listed for this patent is RTC Industries, Inc.. Invention is credited to Thomas E. Hubley, Robert Nicieja.
Application Number | 20170033522 15/164174 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51297302 |
Filed Date | 2017-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170033522 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nicieja; Robert ; et
al. |
February 2, 2017 |
Low Voltage Power Supply for a Merchandise Display System
Abstract
A merchandise display system may include a low voltage power
assembly may comprise a track that includes one or more conductive
rods and one or more mechanical connections, wherein the track is
powered from a power source; and a power connector assembly that
connects to the track, wherein the one or more conductive rods
connect to the power assembly providing a power connection, and
further wherein the one or more mechanical connections connect to
the power assembly providing a mechanical connection. The power
connector assembly may be configured to provide low voltage power
through the track to a low voltage power device. The power assembly
may include a configuration of mechanical connections and
conductive material arranged in such a way as to provide power
and/or signal distribution to a mating device, such as to a set of
LED modules, other lighting sources, or powered track devices for
use with a merchandise display system.
Inventors: |
Nicieja; Robert; (Carol
Stream, IL) ; Hubley; Thomas E.; (Fox River Grove,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
RTC Industries, Inc. |
Rolling Meadows |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51297302 |
Appl. No.: |
15/164174 |
Filed: |
May 25, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14254873 |
Apr 16, 2014 |
9360196 |
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15164174 |
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13924948 |
Jun 24, 2013 |
9146029 |
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14254873 |
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13918281 |
Jun 14, 2013 |
9225131 |
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13924948 |
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61660060 |
Jun 15, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01R 13/6205 20130101;
F21Y 2115/10 20160801; A47F 3/001 20130101; H01R 25/147 20130101;
F21V 21/35 20130101; F21W 2131/405 20130101; H01R 13/6271
20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01R 25/14 20060101
H01R025/14; H01R 13/62 20060101 H01R013/62 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A low voltage power assembly comprising: a track that includes a
first end and a second end opposite the first end that is powered
from a low voltage power source; a power connector assembly that
includes an induction coil and electrically connects to the track
to provide low voltage power through the track to a low voltage
power device; wherein the power connector assembly includes one or
more power connector jacks providing a low voltage power connection
to the low voltage power device; and wherein the power connector
assembly can be moved along the entire length of the track while
maintaining the low voltage power connection.
3. The low voltage power assembly of claim 2, wherein the power
connector assembly further connects to the track through a magnetic
connection.
4. The low voltage power assembly of claim 2, wherein the first end
of the track is a powered end and the second end of the track is a
non-powered end.
5. The low voltage power assembly of claim 2, wherein the track
includes one or more conductive materials that connect to the power
connector assembly providing the low voltage power connection.
6. The low voltage power assembly of claim 5, wherein the one or
more conductive materials form bus bars.
7. The low voltage power assembly of claim 3, wherein the track
includes one or more metal plates that connect to the power
connector assembly providing the magnetic connection.
8. The low voltage power assembly of claim 7, wherein the one or
more metal plates are made of ferrous metals.
9. The low voltage power assembly of claim 2, wherein the power
connector assembly further comprises a printed circuit board that
connects to the one or more power connector jacks of the power
connector assembly.
10. The low voltage power assembly of claim 2, wherein the low
voltage power device has a voltage of 24 volts or less.
11. A low voltage power assembly comprising: a surface that
includes one or more conductive materials adjacent to one another
and a mechanical connection track adjacent the one or more
conductive materials, wherein the surface is powered from a low
voltage power source, and the surface provides low voltage power to
a power connector assembly to provide low voltage power through the
surface to a low voltage power device, wherein the power connector
assembly includes one or more power connector jacks providing a low
voltage power connection to the low voltage power device, and
wherein the power connector assembly can be moved along the entire
length of the surface while maintaining the low voltage power
connection.
12. The low voltage power assembly of claim 11, wherein the power
connector assembly further comprises a mechanical connector that
cooperates and engages the mechanical connection track to form a
mechanical connection to connect the power connector assembly to
each track.
13. The low voltage power assembly of claim 12, wherein the
mechanical connector and mechanical connection track form a
snap-fit connection.
14. The low voltage power assembly of claim 13, wherein the
snap-fit connection is a clip-type snap-fit connection.
15. The low voltage power assembly of claim 12, wherein the
mechanical connector and mechanical connection track form a
press-fit connection.
16. The low voltage power assembly of claim 11, wherein the low
voltage power device has a voltage of 24 volts or less.
17. A low voltage power assembly comprising: a surface having a
first end and a second end opposite the first end that includes one
or more conductive materials adjacent to one another extending from
the first end of the surface to the second end of the surface,
wherein the surface is powered from a low voltage power source; a
power connector assembly that includes an induction coil and
connects to the surface to provide low voltage power through the
surface to a low voltage power device; wherein the power connector
assembly includes one or more power connector jacks providing a low
voltage power connection to the low voltage power device, and
wherein the power connector assembly can be moved along the entire
length of the surface while maintaining the low voltage power
connection.
18. The low voltage power assembly of claim 17, wherein the power
connector assembly further connects to the surface through a
magnetic connection.
19. The low voltage power assembly of claim 18, wherein the surface
includes one or more metal plates adjacent the one or more
conductive materials that connect to the power connector assembly
providing the magnetic connection.
20. The low voltage power assembly of claim 19, wherein the one or
more metal plates are made of ferrous metals.
21. The low voltage power assembly of claim 17, wherein the low
voltage power device has a voltage of 24 volts or less.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/254,873, filed Apr. 16, 2014, which is a
continuation-in-part to U.S. application Ser. No. 13/924,948, filed
Jun. 24, 2013, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,146,029 on Sep. 29, 2015,
which is a continuation-in-part application to U.S. application
Ser. No. 13/918,281, filed Jun. 14, 2013, issued as U.S. Pat. No.
9,225,131 on Dec. 29, 2015, which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/660,060, filed Jun. 15, 2012. These
above-identified U.S. applications are herein incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to power systems. In
particular, in one aspect of the invention, a low voltage power
supply with magnetic connections or mechanical connections is
provided.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In many exemplary power/signal systems, there is a problem
with providing power to many devices while trying to create good
wire management. Additionally, there is a problem with providing
power to many devices while creating a dynamic or flexible system
that allows for device relocation, addition of devices, and removal
of devices for the power/signal systems. Existing solutions provide
cable raceways with multiple connection points (outlet strip
approach) or power track systems (track lighting approach).
Although many conductors for power and signal combinations can be
used, the "outlet strip approach" lacks flexibility and
expandability for adding or relocating devices. Traditional powered
track systems lack easy ways to incorporate many power and signal
conductors. Additionally for each conductor added to the
traditional power track systems the connector required to access
those conductors grows significantly in complexity and size.
[0004] In one exemplary aspect of the present invention, a low
voltage power system may include a configuration of ferrous
material, conductive material, and nonconductive materials arranged
in such a way as to provide a method for power and/or signal
distribution to a mating device, such as to a set of magnetic LED
modules or other similar low voltage power devices. Generally, low
voltage power systems and low voltage power devices have a voltage
of approximately 24 volts or less.
[0005] In another exemplary aspect of the present invention, a
power system may include a configuration of conductive material and
mechanical connections arranged in such a way as to provide a
method for power and/or signal distribution to a mating device,
such as to a set of mechanically-connected low voltage power
devices.
SUMMARY
[0006] The following presents a general summary of aspects of the
invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the
invention and various features of it. This summary is not intended
to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but it simply
provides a general overview and context for the more detailed
description that follows.
[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, a low voltage power assembly
may comprise: (a) a track that includes a first end and a second
end opposite the first end, wherein the track is powered from a low
voltage power source; and (b) a power connector assembly that
connects to the track both through a mechanical connection and a
low voltage power connection. The power connector assembly may be
configured to provide low voltage power through the track to a low
voltage power device. The track may include one or more conductive
plates that connect to the power connector assembly providing the
low voltage power connection. Additionally, the track may include
one or more mechanical connection plates that connect to the power
connector assembly providing the mechanical connection. The low
voltage power device may be, for example, an LED lighting system
for a merchandise display system.
[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a power assembly may
comprise: (a) a track that includes one or more mechanical
connection plates and one or more conductive plates adjacent to one
another, wherein the track is powered from a power source; and (b)
a printed circuit board that connects to the track both through a
mechanical connection and a low voltage power connection. The
printed circuit board may be configured to provide power through
the track to a power device. The printed circuit board may include
one or more contacts that connect to the one or more conductive
plates on the track providing the power connection. Additionally,
the printed circuit board may include one or more mechanical
connectors that connect to the one or more mechanical connection
plates on the track providing the mechanical connection. The power
device may be, for example, an LED lighting system for a
merchandise display system.
[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, a low voltage power
assembly may comprise: 1) a track that includes one or more
conductive plates, one or more mechanical plates, and one or more
metal plates, wherein the track is powered from a low voltage power
source; 2) a first power connector assembly that connects to the
track, wherein the one or more conductive plates connect to the
first power assembly providing a low voltage power connection, and
further wherein the one or more metal plates connect to the first
power assembly providing a magnetic connection; and 3) a second
power connector assembly that connects to the track, wherein the
one or more conductive plates connect to the second power assembly
providing a low voltage power connection, and further wherein the
one or more mechanical connection plates connect to the second
power assembly providing a mechanical connection. The first and the
second power connector assemblies may be configured to provide low
voltage power through the track to a low voltage power device.
[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, a merchandise display
system may comprise: 1) a track that includes a first end and a
second end opposite the first end, wherein the track is powered
from a low voltage power source; and 2) a tray assembly configured
for displaying products and connecting to the merchandise display
system, the tray assembly including a power connector assembly that
connects to the track both through a mechanical connection and a
low voltage power connection. The power connector assembly may be
configured to provide low voltage power through the track to a low
voltage power device.
[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, a merchandise display
system may include: a track that includes one or more conductive
rods adjacent to one another, wherein the track is powered from a
power source and the track is configured to connect to the
merchandise display system; a tray assembly configured to display
products and connect to the merchandise display system. The tray
assembly may include: a power connector that connects to the track
both through a mechanical connection and a power connection,
wherein the power connector includes a contact, a wire harness, a
power jack; and a printed circuit board that connects to the power
jack of the power connector. The printed circuit board may be
configured to provide power to a power device. The low voltage
power device may be a LED lighting system configured to illuminate
the merchandise display system.
[0012] Other objects and features of the invention will become
apparent by reference to the following description and
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] A more complete understanding of the present invention and
certain advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the
following detailed description in consideration with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary lighting
assembly that includes a track and connector assembly.
[0015] FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the track and
connector assembly from FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a power
connector assembly from the track and connector assembly
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of another exemplary
lighting assembly that includes a track and connector assembly.
[0018] FIG. 5 shows a cross-section view of the track and connector
assembly from FIG. 4.
[0019] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a track from the track
and connector assembly illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a power connector
assembly from the track and connector assembly illustrated in FIG.
4.
[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary power
assembly that includes a track and connector assembly.
[0022] FIG. 9A illustrates a close-up perspective view of the power
connector assembly from the track and connector assembly
illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0023] FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-section perspective view of the
power connector assembly from the track and connector assembly
illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0024] FIG. 9C illustrates a cross-section view of the power
connector assembly from the track and connector assembly
illustrated in FIG. 8.
[0025] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary low
power voltage system used with a merchandise display system.
[0026] FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate views of a track for the low
power voltage system illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0027] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate close-up views of the track for
the low power voltage system illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of the low power
voltage system illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0029] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a tray assembly
for the low power voltage system illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0030] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of the power
contact assembly for the low power voltage system illustrated in
FIG. 10.
[0031] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate views of the LED printed
circuit board assembly for the low power voltage system illustrated
in FIG. 10.
[0032] The reader is advised that the attached drawings are not
necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] In the following description of various example structures
in accordance with the invention, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are
shown by way of illustration of various structures in accordance
with the invention. Additionally, it is to be understood that other
specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized, and
structural and functional modifications may be made without
departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, while the
terms "top" and "bottom" and the like may be used in this
specification to describe various example features and elements of
the invention, these terms are used herein as a matter of
convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the
Figures and/or the orientations in typical use. Nothing in this
specification should be construed as requiring a specific three
dimensional or spatial orientation of structures in order to fall
within the scope of this invention.
[0034] These embodiments illustrate a low voltage power supply with
magnetic connections. These systems allow for an easy method of
distributing both power and other signals without the need for
complex wiring and secondary wire management. Additionally, the
attachment of devices to the track system is magnetic. Uses for the
invention include but are not limited to retail environments that
may require periodic/regular relocation of devices connected to the
distribution track. These embodiments are intended to distribute
both power while allowing the easy movement and placement of
connected devices such as lighting systems for the retail
merchandise display systems.
[0035] An embodiment of an exemplary low voltage power system is
illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 7. Generally, the low voltage power
system may be utilized as a distribution track with a magnetic
power connector connected both magnetically and for power to the
distribution track. In one exemplary embodiment, a lighting
assembly or lighting bar with one or more magnetic connector
lighting systems, such as LEDs or other types of lights. The
exemplary low power voltage system may include a configuration or
assembly of ferrous material, conductive material, and
nonconductive materials arranged in such a way as to provide a
method for power and/or signal distribution to a mating device. The
mating device may include a set of magnetic LED modules. The mating
device may include magnetic materials, such as magnets or magnetic
coils, conductive materials, nonconductive materials, and
electronics. The conductive materials may be for example spring
contacts. The electronics may utilize the distributed power and/or
signals.
[0036] As illustrated in one embodiment in FIGS. 1 through 3, an
exemplary low power voltage system 200 is shown. In this example,
the low voltage power system 200 is an exemplary lighting system.
Those of skill in the art will recognize that any low voltage power
system may be utilized without departing from these embodiments.
The exemplary lighting system 200 may also be a track and connector
assembly 200 for use with a retail merchandise display system. The
track and connector assembly 200 may include a track 210 and a
power connector assembly 250. FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view
of the track and connector assembly 200. FIG. 2 illustrates an
exploded perspective view of the track and connector assembly 200
to include both the track 210 and the power connector assembly 250.
FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the power
connector assembly 250. Generally, the power connector assembly 250
connects to the track 210 both through a magnetic connection and a
power connection. The power connector assembly 250 may connect to
the track 210 on any part of the track 210.
[0037] The track 210 may include a first end assembly 212 and a
second end assembly 214. The first end assembly 212 may be
non-powered. The second end assembly 214 may include a powered top
portion 216, a powered bottom portion 218, and one or more track
power contacts 220. Generally, the powered portion (both top 216
and bottom 218) may provide a power source to the track 210 through
the one or more track power contacts 220. The track 210 may include
one or more bus bars 224 for the power connection and a metal plate
226 for the magnetic connection. The bus bars 224 may be conductive
plates or other surfaces and materials that allow the distribution
of power. The metal plate 226 may be any ferrous plate or other
surfaces and materials for magnetic connections. Those of skill in
the art will recognize that any material, shape, form, or type of
conductive material may be utilized for the bus bars 224.
Additionally, those of skill in the art will recognize that any
material, shape, form, or type of ferrous material may be utilized
for the metal plates 226, such as brass. The track 210 may also
include a track mounting bracket 222. The track mounting bracket
222 may be utilized to mount to the merchandise display system,
thereby allowing the track and connector assembly 200 to attach to
the merchandise display system at any preferred location. Those of
skill in the art will recognize that the merchandise display system
may include multiple tracks 210 and multiple power connector
assemblies 250 without departing from this invention.
[0038] The power connector 250 may include a housing which may
include a first or left housing 252 and a second or right housing
254. Within the left housing 252 and the right housing 254 may
include one or more power connector contacts 256. The power
connector contacts 256 may be configured and located in line with
the powered bus bars 224 on the track 210. One or more power
connector jacks 258 may be electronically connected to the power
connector contacts 256. The power connector jacks 258 may then
provide power to a low voltage power device. The low voltage power
device may include various lighting systems, such as individual
LEDs or other such similar low voltage power assemblies for the
merchandise display system.
[0039] Additionally, the power connector 250 may include a magnetic
source 260 or mating device. The magnetic source may be a magnetic
coil, magnet, or induction coil. Other magnetic or mating devices
may be utilized without departing from this invention. The magnetic
source 260 may be configured and located in line with the metal
plate 226 on the track 210. The magnetic source 260 allows the
power connector 250 and any low voltage power supply assemblies
connected to the power connector 250 the ability to be moved along
the entire length of the track 210. For example, individual LEDs
may utilized and moved along the entire length of the track
210.
[0040] As illustrated in another embodiment in FIGS. 4 through 7,
another exemplary low voltage power supply system 300 is shown. In
this embodiment, a lighting system 300 is utilized as the low
voltage power supply system, however other low voltage power supply
systems may be utilized without departing from these embodiments.
For example, the exemplary lighting system 300 may also be a track
and connector assembly 300 for use with a retail merchandise
display system.
[0041] The track and connector assembly 300 may include a track 310
and a power connector 350. FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of
the track and connector assembly 300. FIG. 5 illustrates a
cross-section view of the track and connector assembly 300 to
include both the track 310 and the power connector assembly 350.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the track 310. FIG. 7
illustrates a perspective view of the power connector assembly 350.
Generally, the power connector assembly 350 connects to the track
310 both through a magnetic connection and a power connection. The
power connector assembly 350 may connect to the track 310 along any
portion of the track 310.
[0042] The track 310 may include one or more conductive plates 324
and one or more ferrous plates 326. As illustrated in FIG. 12, a
plurality of insulative materials 328 may be located between each
of the ferrous plates 326 and the conductive plates 324. Those of
skill in the art will recognize that any material, shape, form, or
type of ferrous material may be utilized for the ferrous plates
324. Additionally, those of skill in the art will recognize that
any material, shape, form, or type of conductive material may be
utilized for the conductive plates 326, such as brass. The track
310 may also include a track mounting bracket (not shown in this
embodiment). The track mounting bracket may mount to the
merchandise display system, thereby allowing the track and
connector assembly 300 to attach to the merchandise display system
at any preferred location. In another aspect, the track may be a
freestanding track without the need for a track mounting bracket.
Those of skill in the art will recognize that a merchandise display
system may include multiple tracks 310 and multiple power connector
assemblies 350 and low voltage power supply systems without
departing from this invention.
[0043] As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the power connector 350
may include a printed circuit board 352 which houses the
electronics for the power connector 350. In this given embodiment,
a lighting assembly 354 that includes one or more LEDs 355 and/or
other light sources known and used in the art may be electronically
connected to the printed circuit board 352. Other low voltage power
supply devices may be utilized and electronically connected to the
printed circuit board 352 without departing from this invention.
Additionally, the power connector 350 may include one or more power
connector contacts 356. The power connector contacts 356 may be
configured and located in line with the conductive plates 324 on
the track 310. The power connector contacts 356 may be defined by
spring contacts or any other type of power contacts known and used
in the art. The power contacts 356 may then provide power to the
lighting assembly 354, such as individual LEDs or other such
similar lighting assemblies for the merchandise display system.
[0044] Additionally, the power connector 350 may include a magnetic
source 260 or mating device. The magnetic source may be a magnetic
coil, magnet, or induction coil. Other magnetic or mating devices
may be utilized without departing from this invention. The magnetic
source 360 may be configured and located in line with the ferrous
plates 326 on the track 310. The magnetic source 360 allows the
power connector 350 and any lighting assemblies 354 (or low voltage
power connectors) to be connected to the power connector 350 with
the ability to be moved along the entire length of the track
310.
[0045] These embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 7 solve the
problem with providing power to many devices while trying to create
good wire management, and also creating a dynamic or flexible
system that allows for device re-location, addition of devices, and
removal of devices for the power/signal system. Existing solutions
include cable raceways with multiple connection points (outlet
strip approach) or powered track systems (track lighting approach).
However these traditional approaches fall short in several ways.
Although many conductors for power and signal combinations can be
used, the "outlet strip approach" lacks flexibility and
expandability for adding or relocating devices. Traditional powered
track systems lack easy ways to incorporate many power and signal
conductors. Additionally for each conductor added to the
traditional power track systems the connector required to access
those conductors grows significantly in complexity and size.
[0046] The purpose of these embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1
through 7 is to provide a "break away" connection. Another purpose
of these embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 7 is to provide
an easy to use power and signal distribution track system. Track
lighting is a good example of a powered track system intended for
distributing power to many devices, however current track lighting
systems do not use magnetic attachment methods and are not intended
for distributing more than power for connected devices. These
embodiments are intended to distribute both power while allowing
the easy movement and placement of connected devices such as
lighting systems for the retail merchandise display systems.
[0047] Examples of retail uses for this embodiment are under-shelf
or display-case lighting that may require spot lights for product
specials. Spot light modules such as the proof of concept prototype
could be used to add lighting in a dynamic, modular, and
reconfigurable way. Examples of non-retail applications might
include systems which use sensor modules that communicate via
additional conductors in the configuration or assembly. This type
of application would allow for easy customization of the sensor
system.
[0048] If additional voltages are added to the configuration of
products, additional configurations of products that require
different voltages could be connected on the same distribution
track such that the devices contacts make contact only with the
conductors required. In a given aspect of this invention, there may
two bus bars and/or conductive plates. In another aspect of this
invention, there may be four bus bars and/or conductive plates in
order to handle various additional voltages.
[0049] Other devices using this distribution track may separate the
magnetic connector from the device itself by using a corded
magnetic connector. This allows for many types of devices
(especially larger devices) to make use of the distribution track.
One example might be embedded hardware devices which use the
distribution track as a means for getting power and for
intercommunications between embedded devices utilizing additional
signal conductors.
[0050] Another advantage of this embodiment is that the
distribution track implementations may incorporate many conductors
for power and/or signal and may only grow in size as conductors are
added. The additional conductors for power and/or signal may not
increase the complexity because the access of one conductor does
not interfere with the other conductors as it does in the
traditional powered track approach. This characteristic allows the
design technique to be scalable for many applications.
[0051] LED lighting systems may be utilized with these embodiments
as a low voltage power supply with magnetic connections, and
specifically LED lighting systems utilized with a retail
merchandise display system. LED lighting systems as disclosed in
U.S. application Ser. No. 13/162,076, filed Jun. 16, 2011 and U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/955,198, filed Nov. 29, 2010 wherein each
of the above-identified U.S. applications are herein incorporated
by reference in their entirety.
[0052] In another aspect of this invention, as illustrated in FIGS.
8 through 9C, a power assembly may utilize a mechanical connection
instead of the magnetic connection as described above. The power
assembly may be a low voltage power assembly in accordance with
aspects of this invention. Additionally, high voltage power
assemblies may utilize the mechanical connections disclosed without
departing from this disclosure. The mechanical connection may be a
snap connector or other kinds of mechanical connections known and
used in the art. As was described above, the power assembly may
comprise a track that includes one or more conductive plates and a
mechanical connector, wherein the track is powered from a power
source; and a power connector assembly that connects to the track,
wherein the one or more conductive plates connect to the power
assembly providing a power connection, and further wherein the
mechanical connector connects to the power assembly providing a
secure connection. This power connector assembly may be configured
to provide power through the track to a power device.
[0053] Generally, below, a low voltage power system will be
described. The low voltage power system may be utilized as a
distribution track with a mechanical power connector connected both
mechanically and for power to the distribution track. The exemplary
low power voltage system may include a configuration or assembly of
conductive materials arranged in such a way as to provide a method
for power and/or signal distribution to a mating device. The mating
device may include a set of mechanically connected low voltage
power modules. One example low voltage power module may be a
mechanically connected LED module. The mating device may include
various mechanically connected configurations, such as snap fit
connections, bolted assemblies, threaded metal inserts, hook and
loop type fasteners, molded in threads, push-on/turn-on fasteners,
rivets, press-fits, or similar mechanical-type connection devices.
The conductive materials may be for example spring contacts or any
other similar conductive contact material. The electronics may
utilize the distributed power and/or signals.
[0054] As illustrated in one embodiment in FIGS. 8 through 9C, an
exemplary low power voltage system 400 is shown. In this example,
the low voltage power system 400 is an exemplary lighting system.
Those of skill in the art will recognize that any low voltage
device or power system may be utilized without departing from these
embodiments. The exemplary lighting system 400 may also be a track
and connector assembly 400 for use with a retail merchandise
display system. The track and connector assembly 400 may include a
track 410 and a power connector assembly 450. FIG. 8 illustrates a
perspective view of the track and connector assembly 400. FIG. 9A
illustrates a close-up perspective view of the power connector
assembly 450. FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-section perspective view
of the power connector assembly 450. FIG. 9C illustrates a
cross-section view of the power connector assembly 450. Generally,
the power connector assembly 450 connects to the track 410 both
through a mechanical connection and a power connection. The power
connector assembly 450 may connect to the track 410 on any part of
the track 410.
[0055] The track 410 may include a first end assembly 412 and a
second end assembly 414. The first end assembly 412 may be
non-powered. The second end assembly 414 may include a powered top
portion 416, a powered bottom portion 418, and one or more track
power contacts 420. Generally, the powered portion (both top 416
and bottom 418) may provide a power source to the track 410 through
the one or more track power contacts 420. The track 410 may include
one or more bus bars 424 for the power connection and a mechanical
connection track or surface 426 for the mechanical connection. The
bus bars 424 may be conductive plates or other surfaces and
materials that allow the distribution of power. The mechanical
connection track or surface 426 may be any plate or other surfaces
and materials for mechanical connections as will be explained in
more detail below. Those of skill in the art will recognize that
any material, shape, form, or type of conductive material may be
utilized for the bus bars 424. Additionally, those of skill in the
art will recognize that any material, shape, form, or type of
material may be utilized for the mechanical connection track or
surface 426. The track 410 may also include a track mounting
bracket 422. The track mounting bracket 422 may be utilized to
mount to the merchandise display system, thereby allowing the track
and connector assembly 400 to attach to the merchandise display
system at any preferred location. Those of skill in the art will
recognize that the merchandise display system may include multiple
tracks 410 and multiple power connector assemblies 450 without
departing from this invention.
[0056] The power connector 450 may include a housing which may
include a first or left housing 452 and a second or right housing
454. Within the left housing 452 and the right housing 454 may
include one or more power connector contacts 456. The power
connector contacts 456 may be configured and located in line with
the powered bus bars 424 on the track 410. One or more power
connector jacks 458 may be electronically connected to the power
connector contacts 456. The power connector jacks 458 may then
provide power to a low voltage power device. The low voltage power
device may include various lighting systems, such as individual
LEDs, other lighting sources, powered track devices, or other such
similar low voltage power assemblies for a track system.
[0057] Additionally, the power connector 450 may include a
mechanical connector 460 or mating device. The mechanical connector
460 may cooperate and engage the mechanical connection track 426 to
connect the power connector 450 to the track 410. The mechanical
connector 460 and the mechanical connection track 426 may be one of
various different mechanical connector assemblies without departing
from this invention. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A through 9C,
the mechanical connector 460 and the mechanical connection track
426 and may be a snap fit connector, and more specifically a
cylindrical type snap fit connector. In other examples of this
embodiment, the mechanical connector 460 and the mechanical
connection track 426 and may be a snap fit connector, such as a
cantilever beam snap fit connection or a spherical type snap fit
connection. Other types of mechanical connections known and used in
the art may be utilized between the mechanical connector 460 and
the mechanical connection track 426, such as bolted assemblies,
threaded metal inserts, hook and loop type fasteners, molded in
threads, push-on/turn-on fasteners, rivets, press-fits, or similar
mechanical-type connection devices. The mechanical connector 460
may be configured and located in-line with and the mechanical
connection track 426 on the track 410 such that the mechanical
connector 460 engages and/or cooperates with the mechanical
connection track 426 to connect the power connector 450 to the
track 410. The mechanical connector 460 allows the power connector
450 and any low voltage power supply assemblies connected to the
power connector 450 the ability to be moved along the entire length
of the track 410. For example, individual LEDs, other lighting
sources, or powered track devices may utilized with the power
connector 450 and be moved along the entire length of the track
410.
[0058] FIGS. 10 through 16B illustrate another aspect of this
invention. Specifically, FIGS. 10 through 16B illustrate a low
voltage power system used with a merchandising system. Generally,
as described above, the low voltage power system may include a
distribution track with a tray connected either mechanically or
magnetically and for power to the distribution track. In one
exemplary embodiment, the tray may include a power connector, with
one or more mechanical or magnetic connector systems with a
lighting assembly or lighting bar, such as LEDs or other types of
lights. The exemplary low voltage power system may include a
configuration or assembly of ferrous material, conductive material,
and nonconductive materials arranged in such a way as to provide a
method for power and/or signal distribution to a power connector.
The power connector may include a set of mechanically connected low
voltage power modules. One example low voltage power module may be
a tray with a mechanically connected power connector. The
mechanical power connector may include various mechanically
connected configurations, such as snap fit connections, bolted
assemblies, threaded metal inserts, hook and loop type fasteners,
molded in threads, push-on/turn-on fasteners, rivets, press-fits,
or similar mechanical-type connection devices. The power connector
may also include or alternatively include a set of magnetic
connected power connectors. The magnetic power connector may
include various magnetic configurations and materials, such as
magnets or magnetic coils, conductive materials, nonconductive
materials, and electronics. The conductive materials may be for
example spring contacts. The electronics may utilize the
distributed power and/or signals.
[0059] As illustrated in one embodiment in FIGS. 10 through 16B, an
exemplary retail merchandise display system is shown. The
merchandise display system includes a track and connector assembly
505 which includes a low power voltage system. In this example, the
track and connector assembly 505 may include an exemplary lighting
system, such as LEDs. Those of skill in the art will recognize that
any low voltage power system may be utilized without departing from
these embodiments. The track and connector assembly may include a
track 510 and a tray assembly 530. The tray assembly 530 may
include a power connector 550. Generally, the power connector 550
connects to the track 510 both through a mechanical or magnetic
connection and a power connection. The power connector 550 may
connect to the track 510 on any part of the track 510.
[0060] As illustrated in FIGS. 11A through 12B, the track 510 may
include a housing 512 and one or more power contacts 514. The track
may also include a first end 516 and a second end 518. The first
end 516 may include a power wire 520 which can be connected to a
power source to provide power the power contacts 514. The housing
512 may be configured to extend vertically along a retail
merchandise display system. The housing may be made of a plastic
extrusion. The one or more power contacts 514 may include contact
wires 514A 514B installed or set into the housing 512. As
illustrated in FIG. 12A, the housing 512 may include curved slots
513 to hold the contact wires 514A 514B.
[0061] The housing 512 may be non-powered. Generally, the power
contacts 514 may provide a power source to the track 510 through
the one or more track contact wires 514A 514B. The power contacts
514 may be conductive wires, rods, or plates or other surfaces and
materials that allow the distribution of power. The power contacts
514 may also include any ferrous plate or other surfaces and
materials for magnetic connections. Those of skill in the art will
recognize that any material, shape, form, or type of conductive
material may be utilized for the power contacts 514. Additionally,
those of skill in the art will recognize that any material, shape,
form, or type of ferrous material may be utilized for the power
contacts 514, such as brass.
[0062] The track 510 may also include a track mounting bracket (not
shown). The track mounting bracket may be utilized to mount the
track 510 to the merchandise display system, thereby allowing the
track and connector assembly to attach to the merchandise display
system at any preferred location. Those of skill in the art will
recognize that the merchandise display system may include multiple
tracks 510 and multiple power connectors 550 without departing from
this invention.
[0063] FIGS. 13 through 16B illustrate the tray assembly 530. The
tray assembly 530 includes a tray 540. The tray assembly 530 may
also include a pan 560. The pan 560 may be an existing metal pan
already attached to and connected to the merchandise display. The
tray 540 may be sized and shaped to slide into and or fit with the
pan 560. Generally, the pan 560 includes the structure to support
and hold the tray assembly 530 as well as any required products or
merchandise. The pan 560 may include arms 562 that attach or
connect to the merchandise display system.
[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 14, the tray 540 includes a front
portion, a rear portion, and two sides. Any size or shape of the
tray 540 may be utilized without departing from this invention. The
tray 540 may be rectangular, square, or other shapes without
departing from this invention. The tray 540 may be configured to
slide into the pan 560 and held by the pan 560 in the merchandise
display system. In other embodiments without departing from this
invention, the tray 540 may provide the supports necessary for
attaching to or connecting to the merchandise display system,
without the use of a pan 560.
[0065] As shown in these illustrative embodiments, the tray
assembly 530 includes a power connector 550. The power connector
may include one or more contact assemblies 552. The contact
assembly may include a contact 554, a wire harness 556, and a power
jack 558. The contact 554 may be located near the rear portion of
the tray 540. The power jack 558 may be located near or at the
front portion of the tray 540 and near or at a lighting source or
LED printed circuit board assembly. The wire harness 556 extends
between the contact 554 at the rear portion of the tray 540 to the
power jack 558 at the LED printed circuit board assembly. As shown
in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the contact assembly 552 may include a right
hand contact assembly 552A and a left hand contact assembly
552B.
[0066] Additionally, the power connector 550 may include a
mechanical connector 550A or mating device or the power connector
550 may work as a mechanical connector 550A. The mechanical
connector 550A may cooperate and engage the track 510 to connect
the power connector 550 to the track 510. The mechanical connector
550A and the track 510 may be one of various different mechanical
connector assemblies without departing from this invention. For
example, the mechanical connector 550A and the track 510 and may be
a snap fit connector, and more specifically a clip-type snap fit
connector. In other examples of this embodiment, the mechanical
connector 550A and the track 510 may be a cylindrical type snap fit
connector. In other examples of this embodiment, the mechanical
connector 550A and the track 510 may be a snap fit connector, such
as a cantilever beam snap fit connection or a spherical type snap
fit connection. Other types of mechanical connections known and
used in the art may be utilized between the mechanical connector
550A and the track 510, such as bolted assemblies, threaded metal
inserts, hook and loop type fasteners, molded in threads,
push-on/turn-on fasteners, rivets, press-fits, or similar
mechanical-type connection devices. The mechanical connector 550A
may be configured and located in-line with and on the track 510
such that the mechanical connector 550A engages and/or cooperates
with the track 510 to connect the power connector 550A to the track
510. The mechanical connector 550A allows the power connector 550
and any low voltage power supply assemblies connected to the power
connector 550 the ability to be moved along the entire length of
the track 510. For example, individual LEDs, other lighting
sources, or powered track devices may utilized with the power
connector 550 and be moved along the entire length of the track
510.
[0067] The tray assembly 530 may also include a lighting source. As
illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B the tray assembly 530 includes a
LED printed circuit board assembly lighting source 532. The LED
printed circuit board assembly 532 may be located at or near the
front portion of the tray 540. The LED printed circuit board
assembly 532 may extend across the entire front portion of the tray
540. In other embodiments of the invention, the LED printed circuit
board assembly 532 may extend across a portion of the front portion
of the tray 540. The LED printed circuit board assembly 532 may be
located at various other locations of the merchandise display
without departing from this invention.
[0068] The LED printed circuit board assembly 532 may include
various LED light sources 534 to illuminate the merchandise display
system. Additionally, the LED printed circuit board assembly 532
may include metal clips 536 or ends. The metal clips may attach or
connect to the ends of the LED printed circuit board assembly 532
and the power jack 558 of the contact assembly 552. The connection
from the power wire 520 to the power contacts 514 to the contact
assembly 552 with the contact 554, the wire harness 556, and the
power jack 558, and finally through to the metal clip 536 powers
the LEDs 534 on the printed circuit board assembly 532.
[0069] As is described and detailed above, any low voltage power
source may be powered by this invention, not just an LED printed
circuit board assembly. For example, the connection from the power
wire 520 to the power contacts 514 to the contact assembly 552 with
the contact 554, the wire harness 556, and the end contact 558, and
finally through to the metal clip 536 may power any other low
voltage power source without departing from this invention. The low
voltage power source may include various lighting systems, such as
individual LEDs or other such similar low voltage power assemblies
for the merchandise display system.
[0070] The tray assembly 530 may also include a flip front portion
570 that allows the description and/or labelling of products
and/merchandise. The flip front portion 570 may be located towards
the front portion of the tray 540. The flip front portion 570 may
include a clear lens such that the light from the LEDs 534 may be
illuminated through the flip front portion 570. The flip front
portion 570 may also flip up and down as required to assist with
the merchandise display system.
[0071] Additionally, in another aspect of this invention, a low
voltage power system may be utilized as a distribution track that
includes 1) one or more mechanical power connector connected both
mechanically and for power to the distribution track and 2) one or
more magnetic power connector connected both magnetically and for
power to the distribution track. Both the mechanical power
connector and the magnetic power connector may be utilized and
defined as above. Both the mechanical power connector and the
magnetic power connector may be utilized without departing from
this invention.
[0072] The reader should understand that these specific examples
are set forth merely to illustrate examples of the invention, and
they should not be construed as limiting the invention. Many
variations in the lighting assemblies may be made from the specific
structures described above without departing from this
invention.
[0073] While the invention has been described in detail in terms of
specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying
out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous variations and permutations of the above
described systems and methods. Thus, the spirit and scope of the
invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended
claims.
* * * * *